Fluid processing apparatus

Abstract

A machine is provided with a slot to releasably receive and retain a cartridge in which dialysis is effected. The machine is configured for supplying to the cartridge, at a controlled temperature and rate, sterile water for use in haemodialysis and is operable to maintain, in a sterile condition, residual water contained therein after completion of a haemodialysis treatment.

Description

[0001]This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 11 / 919,600, filed Jan. 26, 2009, which in turn is a national stage application of International Application No. PCT / GB2006 / 001671 with an International filing date of May 8, 2006.FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0002]This invention relates to apparatus for the extracorporeal processing of bodily fluids, in particular the extracorporeal dialysis of blood.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0003]Most dialysis apparatus currently in use must be very rigorously cleaned between uses to prevent contamination, either cross-contamination from one fluid to another or contamination, with for example bacteria, due to poor sanitation. This is particularly important in haemodialysis, which comprises removing blood from the body, processing it by means of diffusion exchange through a membrane with a dialysis solution, and then returning it to the body. In attempt to reduce the amount of cleaning required, various methods and apparatus have been devel...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The present invention provides an improved haemodialysis apparatus that minimizes the need for cleaning. The apparatus includes a sterile water outlet with a valve that can be opened or closed to control the flow of water. When the valve is closed, residual water is prevented from exiting the sterile outlet, and when it is opened, the water can pass through. This prevents residual water from exiting the sterile outlet and maintains it in a sterile condition. The apparatus also includes a disposable cartridge for dialysis that eliminates the need for cleaning and sterilization after each use. It can be reused multiple times without the need for cleaning, reducing cleaning operations and the risk of cross-contamination. Overall, the invention provides a more efficient and safe haemodialysis process.

Problems solved by technology

Often these systems have been complex requiring either a disposable flexible bag-like circuit to be placed in a non-disposable rigid supporting structure prior to inserting into the machine or requiring tubes to be connected to various elements of a non-disposable component prior to interfacing with the machine.

While these designs go some way to providing a solution to the cleaning problem, they are complex and there is scope for error in their use.

These volumes must be kept under specific conditions and can only be stored for a finite amount of time before bacterial growth begins.

In addition, if different patients require the use of different processing fluids this does not provide a universal system.

Further, the machine complexity has remained high because of the need to provide the chemical and circulatory fluid paths required for the cleaning process.

Images